Final answer:
To determine the length of side x in an equilateral triangle, set up a proportion using the given scale ratio and the known scale length, then solve for x through cross multiplication and round to the nearest tenth.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the length of side x in an equilateral triangle when provided with a scale ratio, you can set up a proportion. Given the ratio of scale length to actual length, you can solve for x using a simple cross multiplication.
Steps to Calculate the Unknown Length:
First, write down the given scale ratio.
Write down the second ratio, using the known scale length and the unknown actual length (x).
Set up the proportion scale/actual length.
Cross multiply to solve for x.
Round your answer to the nearest tenth as required.
For example, if the scale length is 3 inches and the ratio is 1 inch to 2000 miles, the proportion would be 1 inch/2000 miles = 3 inches/x miles. Cross multiplying gives you x = 6000 miles. Round this number to the nearest tenth if necessary.